Federal Public Defender

Position Overview

The United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit is accepting applications from all qualified candidates for the role of Federal Public Defender for the Central District of California. This appointment carries a four-year term and may be renewed for additional terms in the future. The current authorized annual compensation for the position is $197,200, and the role is expected to begin on June 1, 2026.

Role Summary

Serving under the authority of 18 U.S.C. 3006A(g)(2)(A) and the Criminal Justice Act Plan of the Central District of California, the Federal Public Defender is responsible for delivering criminal defense representation to people who cannot afford private legal counsel.

Office Scope and Structure

The office oversees an annual budget of $58 million and includes more than 230 team members. The staff comprises approximately 105 attorneys, 26 paralegals, 35 investigators, and over 66 additional support personnel. The main office is located in Los Angeles, which serves as the primary base for the Defender, and the organization also operates branch offices in Santa Ana and Riverside.

Terms of Appointment

The appointment is for a four-year period with the possibility of reappointment to subsequent terms.